NFL insider implies Seahawks could draft quarterback high in draft

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 12/6/23

While the Seattle Seahawks probably aren't going to move on from quarterback Geno Smith, don't be surprised if they draft their signal-caller of the future in 2024.

"Seattle feels like a team to watch, depending on how the rest of the season shakes out," ESPN's Jeremy Fowler wrote of the QB market. "The Seahawks have spent the past two years building the strength of the overall roster for the post-Russell Wilson era. Soon enough, that could include drafting a quarterback high in Round 1."

Even though Seattle signed Smith to a three-year, $75M contract in March, it reportedly considered selecting Florida QB Anthony Richardson with the fifth overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft. The Indianapolis Colts ultimately took Richardson with the fourth overall pick, with the Seahawks drafting cornerback Devon Witherspoon instead.

Smith has backtracked slightly after winning Comeback Player of the Year last season. In 12 games this year, the 33-year-old quarterback has completed 64.4 percent of his passes for 2,918 yards, 15 touchdowns, nine interceptions and an 89.1 passer rating, just above the league average.

In a Week 13 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Smith threw a season-high three passing TDs; however, the Seahawks' (6-6) playoff chances fell to 26.5 percent with the loss, per ESPN's FPI (Football Power Index). On Sunday, the Seahawks face the San Francisco 49ers (10-2) in a road game. As of Wednesday, oddschecker lists the 49ers as a 10.5-point favorite.

Whether or not Seattle makes the postseason, it's fair to wonder if Smith can carry a franchise. The Seahawks taking a QB high in the draft isn't irrational, especially in a class deep at the position. The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner reported there could be at least six prospects with first- or second-round grades, including Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, North Carolina's Drake Maye and Southern Cal's Caleb Williams.

Tanakthon predicts the Seahawks will have the 15th overall pick in the 2024 draft, within range to select Smith's understudy.

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